The Haunting (1963)

The first, and still, unmatched version of author Shirley Jackson’s classic, The Haunting of Hill House, was directed by Robert Wise (“Odds Against Tomorrow;” “The Day the Earth Stood Still”) and stars Emmy/Tony/Grammy winning actress Julie Harris (“East of Eden;” “Requiem for a Heavyweight”). Rated the best horror film ever by director Martin Scorsese, The Haunting spins the now legendary tale of Hill House, an old home whose inhabitants – for 90 years – have met strange and tragic ends.

Enter Dr. John Markway (Robert Johnson; Fulci’s “Zombie”), a believer doing research to prove the existence of ghosts. Along with him are the skeptical Luke (Russ Tamblyn; “Twin Peaks”), who is in line to inherit the old mansion, mysterious clairvoyant Theodora (Claire Bloom; “Look Back in Anger”) and the fragile Eleanor (Harris) who increasingly feels herself psychically attuned to the spirits she believes to inhabit the house. When a malevolent presence seems to begin manifesting itself in horrific ways, they all soon realize they have gotten far more than they bargained for. As with other ICFS events, expect prizes, surprises, comfy couches and a convenient bar. Rated G. 112 minutes